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Cats in crisis: RSPCA Cymru rescues five felines a day in Wales

RSPCA Cymru rescued 1,843 cats throughout Wales during 2016, and the charity is bracing itself for an “influx” into its centres over the summer months.

Newly-released data suggests the RSPCA is rescuing more than five cats across Wales every single day, and the traditionally busiest period of the year is now to follow for the charity.

The summer period is typically considered ‘kitten season’ – and, sadly, this can mean an influx of cats and kittens at RSPCA centres.

RSPCA Cymru rescued 706 between June and September across Wales in 2016.

People across Wales interested in adding a cat to their family are being invited to visit re-homing centres, with cats seeking new forever homes at RSPCA centres at Newport and Bryn-Y-Maen, in Upper Colwyn Bay.

An Animal Adoption Centre, based at Pets at Home in Newport, also specialises in cat re-homing.

RSPCA cat welfare expert Alice Potter said: “The cats that come into our care are unique. Many have been rescued from neglect or cruelty or have been taken in after they were dumped and left to fend for themselves on the streets.

“In Wales, the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of cats is a huge part of our work.

“We are always looking for people to help find homes for kittens and cats – whether that be adopting one of the loveable cats in our care – or taking one home to foster.

“The summer months are very busy for us as it is classically kitten season.

“Sadly there are so many unwanted cats in our centres – but each cat has his or her own personality and is just looking for someone to love them.”

Cats in RSPCA care seeking loving new forever homes include Alistair, who was rescued by RSPCA Cymru following a road traffic accident in Pontypridd in early April. He had a badly broken back leg which required amputation, was not microchipped and an owner could not be located.

The black and white domestic shorthair crossbreed recovered well from his operation, and is now in desperate need of a loving new home. Alistair is approximately one-year-old, is extremely affectionate and loves human companionship.

Samantha Richmond, from RSPCA Newport Animal Centre, said: “Sadly, Alistair’s accident meant he lost a leg, but he has recovered well from the operation and now desperately needs a new home.

“Alistair finds cattery life a little challenging – but is such a friendly cat, who relishes any opportunity to spend time with people, sit on their lap and enjoy a fuss.

“We believe he’d be well suited to a household with primary school aged children, and would love those able to give Alistair a suitable home, and thinking of adding a cat to their family, to come and meet him.”

In North Wales, three male cats affectionately named after Charles Dickens characters continue to search for a second chance of happiness.

Oliver Twist, Fagin and Bullseye all arrived at the Bryn-Y-Maen Centre in mid-February, and were given names inspired by Dickens’ 1837 book Oliver Twist.

They came into RSPCA care from a multi-cat household, after their previous owner died. The cats initially seemed to be under-socialised, and – as such – seek understanding and patient new owners, who can gradually help them adapt to a new home.

Chris Butler, Kennel and Cattery Supervisor at RSPCA Bryn-y-Maen, said: “This Dickens-inspired trio are three of ten cats who arrived at Bryn-Y-Maen at the same time from a Bangor property.

“We don’t think they spent much time outside at their previous home, and we’ve worked hard on their socialisation since they came into our care.

“It’s hoped Oliver Twist, Fagin and Bullseye will soon become the latest three cats the RSPCA have been able to find loving new homes for.”

Should you would like to rehome a cat, visit the Find a Pet section of the RSPCA website.

If you wish to help the RSPCA rescue, rehabilitate and rehome cats, you can give £3 now by texting LOVE to 87023 (text costs £3 + one standard network rate message). We are a charity and rely on public donations to exist.